What is the ruling for an exiled woman who has no Mahram?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Ḥudūd (Prescribed Penalties)

Book 51 · Issue 4 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

If she has no Mahram, she should travel with trustworthy women (nisa' thiqat).

Supporting text

Regarding the wages for these trustworthy women traveling with her, the ruling is the same as the ruling concerning the Mahram's wages. If a suitable female companion cannot be found, Imam Ahmad stated that she remains without a traveling companion, which is also the view of Al-Shafi'i. This is because postponing the exile is not possible, making it analogous to the case of emigration (hijra) or Hajj where the Mahram dies en route.